Flag Day

Having spent over 10 years in this man's Navy, I was one of many fortunate Americans to have visited many different countries. I ate their foods, experienced their cultures, made an honest attempt to learn a little bit of their language, and visited their historical sites. Through all of this, I always tried to show my respect to that particular place and the people.Why? Because I believed that I was an unofficial ambassador for my country. I never wanted anyone from that country to think that we, Americans, were as bad as their press made us out to be. I wanted these people to see that Americans were a proud people but respectful of other cultures. And, I like to feel that I was successful in my attempts.But unfortunately, the modern day press and all the idiotic politics that come our way, always seemed to only show us, Americans, as power hungry, uncaring, bad guys, with an ego bigger than possible. I've lost count of all the ports that I visited, that uniforms were not allowed ashore because of Anti-American protests and the threats against us in town. History in our own country had our own protesters, in the news, trying to make their point by of all things...............burning our flag. So, what do these other countries do? They can't make their points viable during their protests and marches, with banners and signs, so they burn our flag............copying our own people's actions.These countries don't have all of the luxuries and freedoms that we do, like freedom of expression, and freedom of speech, but are extremely capable of emulating what the people of the "big and bad United States" do and get away with. Apparently, they believe that because our government does nothing to stop our protesters from this desecration of our symbol of freedom, why not do the same.My feeling is pretty straight forward and simple. Everyone in this country has the right to express themselves as they see fit, provided no one gets hurt or killed. That's fine by me. If no laws are broken, state, local, or countrywide...........go for it. BUT................why does our own country NOT protect the very symbol of this country?While I was growing up and when I joined the USN, and thru present day, I am always proud to see "Ole Glory" hoisted up. That flag means alot to me. That's why I served. Because it was and is the symbol of MY country, MY freedoms, MY life and my ancestors served this country to protect those freedoms. And I'm reminded of their sacrifices everytime I see that beautiful banner flying in the breeze. And anytime any........ANY American wants to take the time to question the politics of this country, do it!!!! BUT, leave MY flag alone. That banner has nothing to do with any protest that is made.We have holidays celebrating religions and cultures. We have holidays commemorating victories and battles. We have holidays remembering those heroes lost and those still serving. Thank God, in our FREE country, we have a day celebrating a very important item..........OUR FLAG!!! Thank God I'm an American!!!!Incidently.................Mine is flying as I'm typing this. Is yours?"Dutch"
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  • yep..24/7/365....and lighted at night, and at half-mast those who gave freedom everything...
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